The other way is to use brass black from browning which is a selenic acid solution but ive never liked it.
Copper darkening solution. Immerse in hot solution 140-158F 60-70C to cause etching of the surface and gradual darkening. According to the article you can make carbonate of copper by slowly adding a solution of washing soda to a copper sulfate solution both of which can be bought at any DIY store such as Home Depot. Add baking soda to hot water until it will no longer dissolve and fill spray bottle with this darkening solution.
Brass Darkening Solution is a. Depending on the surface the strength of the solution and the application method it will produce a golden brown to a burgundy black patina. It changes color gradually so you can control the darkness of your hardware.
Its totally jet black and very hard. Apply with a sponge or cloth to plasterboard brick cement. Darkening Solution for chemically darkening light spots that may appear in the bottom of copper sinks.
Both of these patinas may be used to produce darkening effects over. If you own restoration hardware you should have a bottle of Darkening Solution. This solution instantly antiquates or darkens brass copper or bronze.
Use cotton swabs dampened with the solution to wet hard-to-reach places. Its an acid in which you can clean brass items. This solution effectively antiquates or darkens brass copper or bronze.
It is a fast acting liquid that will also darken and antique copper bronze and tin. Selenium dioxide is a fantastic chemical for blackening copper and brass. Washing soda is commonly sold under the Arm Hammer brand name.

